Things to consider before choosing a gynaecologist
A gynaecologist is a doctor that specializes in the reproductive and sexual health care of women. Due to the sensitivity of this kind of healthcare, there are important factors to consider when choosing one.
For a lot of women, a lot of thought goes into getting a gynaecologist as there are a myriad of factors to consider in the process. A conversation on Twitter revealed that women consider different things before choosing a gynaecologist that will attend to not only their physical but also their mental needs.
Women, please what are the factors you consider before choosing a gynaecologist? Please RT, it’s research for an article I’m writing. Thanks!!
— oyinda (@uxtobiaf) April 10, 2021
Here are some of the replies
Recommendation from people I trust
— Temmii (@t_odeyinka) April 10, 2021
Their explanations about my symptoms.
One time a gynecologist told me that the sickness I had was because I was fat as that particular problem was common amongst fat people and pregnant people, so since I wasn’t pregnant, it was d fatness
1. Professionalism- Is it just a word or does the gyna practice it.
— Nonye the Data Chief (@_NonyeJ) April 10, 2021
2. Gender- Most likely will prefer a female but it’s a Male, I don’t mind.
When abroad; african, west African or Nigerian depending on where( someone who I can easily open up to). Here; experienced/senior consultants. Don’t mind whether female or male. Never had female gynae: not intentional, I just go with who’s available.
— Diana Emenyonu (@dianeemenyonu) April 10, 2021
1. Experience; How many years have you been doing this? What are your accolades? Are you inclined to use first-world methods or are you innovative?
— Ocheenehi Ayo Juma (@ayomid3_juma) April 10, 2021
2. Third-party word-of-mouth: How are your online reviews? Do you empathize/listen to your patients?
Are they pro choice?
— Ibi (@thisibi) April 10, 2021
What’s the doctor’s reputation?
Is there a “Jesus saves” picture hanging in their office?
Gender
For most women, gender is not a huge factor when choosing a gynaecologist. Some may prefer female gynaecologists, but ultimately do not mind male gynaecologists who are professional and empathetic. However, many understand that women tend to understand some of the issues a lot better than their male counterparts.
Professionalism
Professionalism is a very important factor for a gynaecologist because many women have faced sexual harassment and abuse from unprofessional doctors who violate them instead of helping them. Having a doctor who takes their job very seriously is imperative in handling health matters as sensitive as sexual and reproductive health.
Experience
Nothing trumps experience in this field. For many of us, having an experienced doctor who can take charge, diagnose and proffer solutions based on their experience is a very important and non-negotiable factor.
Empathy
Another non-negotiable factor for most women when choosing a gynaecologist is empathy. Women’s pain is often dismissed or minimised and so having a doctor who is empathetic and listens when patients complain is important as it is often a matter of life and death.
Religious beliefs
There have been stories of medical practitioners who allow their personal religious beliefs to interfere with their work, especially when it comes to reproductive and sexual health care. It is of the utmost importance and safety of women to have a gynaecologist who will be professional and will not let their personal beliefs prevent them from providing the best healthcare they can. Many women have sought out various forms of contraceptives, only to have the doctors preaching to them. It is better to avoid that.
Recommendations
As in any business, recommendations are one of the effective ways of finding a good, reliable gynaecologist. Some women ask people they trust to recommend doctors for them and go with whatever options they are presented with. If you’re looking for a new gynaecologist, ask your loved ones and friends. They might just have the right person for you.
Do you have more questions about choosing a gynaecologist? You can reach out to our Moderators on our Facebook Page and we will respond.
